Although the rocket artillery is capable of delivering a near-simultaneous and massive blow, it is notoriously inaccurate. Discuss how some of the other weapons in the novel have both good features and limitations. Why would the military leaders of the time accept weapons with such limitations? How does Sharpe ameliorate the rockets' inaccuracy?

Dubreton is presented as a competent military leader, and his superior officers are obviously men of great experience. Yet they are all swayed by Ducos' insistence for an en masse frontal assault on the castle. Why do you think Ducos has such unofficial influence over the men?

Farthingdale has written a widely-read book on military tactics yet he appears incapable of effectively leading men in combat. Sharpe is mostly uneducated yet is a superb combat leader. Compare and contrast Farthingdale and Sharpe—what makes one man effective while another man is not?